Graz Weather Overview:
Graz has an unusual climate for a city located so far inland. In a bowl shaped valley protected from the westerly winds, its climate is influenced more by the Mediterranean to the south. Visitors are surprised at the sub-tropical plants that grow there and the hot weather that accompanies sunny summer days.

All Time Highs and Lows:
The highest temperature ever recorded in Graz was on August 17th 2003 when it reached 35.5C. The coldest temperature of -19.3 was recorded in December 1934 and February 1964.

Weather Science:
Graz should experience a continental climate under the Koppen classification but its unique geographical position southeast of the Alps means that it is protected from the wet westerly winds whilst the valley in which it’s located is open only to the south allowing an overriding influence from the Mediterranean. The lack of wind often leads to poor air quality with smog being a regular winter problem.

The Seasons:

Spring: Spring weather is often quite mild with March temperatures over 50f rising to over 70f in May. That said, snow is still possible with over five inches on average recorded in March and two and a half inches in April. Levels of precipitation are increasing with May having twice that of March. Whilst the number of days of rain is four more in May than March, the amount of sunshine is 50% higher.

Summer: The summer months are great for visiting Graz as the temperature soars into the 80s and there’s abundant sunshine. Nearly eight hours a day can be expected through June, July and August but some days are spoiled by late afternoon and early evening thunderstorms as humidity increases. The downpours that accompany them bring the year’s highest rainfall totals, five times those of January.

Autumn: As autumn progresses, temperatures naturally decline although the geography of Graz means that the fall isn’t as steep as in other Austrian cities. September can be a wonderful month to visit with temperatures still in the mid-70s and six hours a day of sunshine. The summer rainfall is reducing now and you’ll find five fewer days of rain than in July.

Winter: Winters are often cold and snowy with temperatures hovering at or below freezing for the best part of the three month winter period. Over a foot of snow can be expected in December and January but the still air means that wind chill isn’t a problem. This does mean the potential for air pollution and people with breathing problems should reconsider visiting Graz in winter.

Best Time to Visit:
The best times to visit Graz are in May or September when the temperatures are pleasant but not too hot and the humidity is less. You’ll also avoid many of the thunderstorms that spoil the warm evenings in summer. In May the city is a riot of colour with the spring flowers whilst in September the harvest is underway in the surrounding countryside.